Speaking out for girls at the UN

Girlguiding Scotland members Emma Guthrie and Isla Whateley are speaking out for girls and women around the world at the United Nations 61st Commission on the Status of Women.

As delegates Emma and Isla have the opportunity to influence policy-makers and help shape the actions UN members states will take to make the world a better place for girls and women. Throughout the event they’ve been speaking out on issues including gender stereotypes, violence against girls & women, economic empowerment and more. A

Emma, who is representing the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) at the 2-week long event in New York, says:

“It’s been really interesting to be part of a delegation of 11 women from all over the world and I’ve enjoyed getting to know them, learning about each other’s countries and experiences.

So far the commission has been action-packed. I’ve had the chance to speak on panels, meet representatives to the UK government and get updates on the progress we’re making and well as leading my own workshop on the topic of ‘investing in every girl’. It’s been an amazing opportunity and helped me to develop my critical thinking and public speaking skills.

As the conference continues I’m looking forward to learning more about the issues affecting girls and women around the world, speaking out at more events and panels and finding out the actions the Commission will be taking in the years to come to make the world a better, safer and more empowering place for girls and women.”

Isla has been supporting the Commission from here in Scotland in her role as a remote WAGGGS delegate. She says:

“As a remote delegate I have been engaging with the Commission via Twitter @WAGGGSdelegates and UNTV. I have also been feeding into policy discussions with the delegates there on the ground and getting daily updates from Emma on the progress we’re making.

I’ve really enjoyed being able to amplify our voices across digital channels and I’m excited to see what action the Commission plans to take to empower girls and young women around the world.”

You can follow all the action from the 61st Commission on the Status of Women on Twitter using #CSW61